Janae Easton at Platypusfile

A weekend of drawing

2012-02-12T17:49:00.000-08:00

It is so nice to get time to draw. Often I am working on other goodies I sell, but this weekend was a bit different. My hubby worked on rebuilding our front porch while I got some drawing done. Walter scooted about playing all sorts of games fostered in his imagination. It was pleasant. I am getting in gear for market season again. Here is a look at a bird friend that will be coming with me starting in March.

loving books

2012-02-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness - I have been very lucky this past week. All of (well, most of) my books have arrived. I have been eyeing these beauties for some time now. I love books, old, new, used, smelly (sometimes), children's, gardening, art, craft, fiction, non-fiction. I am a bit of a lover, I really do have many interests, and books allow me to escape to so many far off and close places. We have over 2,000 books and counting. I am excited to see where these pretties will end up in my studio. The first two that arrived were Dottie Angel and Camilla Engman. Both published by the amazing publication Uppercase. I recommend getting a subscription to this periodical while you are it. The other four did come from Amazon. I have been trying to only buy books locally or from small presses, but I am starting to run out of places. And I want what I want. So many books to read and love. I hope you all have a stack you are also drooling over. Have a most wonderful weekend!

Come on over to Charm Stitch!

2012-02-08T05:20:00.000-08:00

Charm Stitch is featuring my One Hour Up-cycled Jersey Pants Tutorial. Laura does an amazing job collecting and creating fun tutorials, amazing cloth in her shop, and overall blog sweetness. If you have seen Walter, you have probably seen some version of these pants. We use gently used man shirts either golf or jersey so the pants are super soft and affordable. Here is a look at my sweet boy wearing his new pants.

sneak peek - online tutorial

2012-02-06T06:37:00.000-08:00

I don't want to give too much away - but last night I finished up a tutorial for the lovely blog Charm Stitch. My first sewing tutorial - it will have lots of pics and descriptions. My sweet hubby helped out lots with the descriptions, thank goodness. Charm Stitch also has an etsy shop where Laura sells the most beautiful fabrics. On my cutting table you can see some wonderful Echino fabric. I will keep you posted when it goes live.

What a mess!

2012-02-05T07:49:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful that I get to make things for a living. I definitely wake up every day knowing how lucky I am to be able to have a life that revolves around the handmade. I have been using our dinning room for the past 3 years as studio/dinning room. Which is super tricky, we live in a 930 square foot cottage. Lovely but small. I have moments where everything runs smoothly, but more often than not I cannot find the item I need. As for the pattern for boys pants. I am doing a tutorial for the wonderful blog Charm Stitch. So as I prepare for the photo session I realize I cannot find all that I need. (I have also been looking for my favorite book for over two months now). Well, then I dove into my mess. As some of you know I am starting the process of building an addition that will be my studio. I took this opportunity to throw out/give away what has been accumulating over the past year. Good news - I have found the pattern, my fav book, and cleaned up for the upcoming move to my very own studio. Here is the dreaded before, and some fun collections I found during my day. Check back in the week for a sneak peek at the tutorial.

Gocco Gocco Gocco

2012-02-05T07:37:00.000-08:00

I am still catching up on re-printing cards. Night and morning gocco printing. Walter helped me a bit with the bird on a flower. It's fun that he is old enough to understand how to help moma these days.

collections - loving things

2012-02-03T20:33:00.000-08:00

I heart things so much. Collections of everything, from the common love of seashells to old aquarium decor to vintage dixie cups. I was thinking about how making things allows me to having many moving temporary collections and how thankful I am for that. I love seeing things in multiple. Since I was an undergrad in Art school, I would make fifty pillows for an installation or 25 drawings that were stacked on top of each other. My practice remains, it only differs in the outcome. Multiples are beautiful, the stacked paper, the variations in the button design, the placement of the lines of earrings. The collection allows us to see the differences in these wonderful things. I love the variations the imperfections, I love things.

late night Gocco printing

2012-01-31T07:24:00.000-08:00

It is really fun to reprint a Gocco screen that has already been burned. No deep breaths hoping the screens burn right but a guarantee that all is well and will work. Such fun choosing new colors, seeing how the print comes back to life. I really love the Gocco process, I totally recommend in investing in supplies for it! I have sold out of many of the cards and will use this week as a reprint week. Here is glance at my night of printing. Have a great week!

January Blooms

2012-01-29T18:09:00.000-08:00

We have had some very warm days which have fooled all the pretty Spring flowering plants to bloom. Here a Japanese Magnolia loosing it's blooms before the freeze. If I remember right last year the Japanese Magnolia's were about to bloom and then the freeze came before the flowers popped out. So at least they had their chance to bloom this year. North Florida weather is fickle, and I love it.

Gocco Gocco Gocco

2012-01-07T07:40:00.000-08:00

I had a fun and productive day of Gocco making. I think I must talk endlessly on how it can go either swimmingly or like sailing on rough choppy waters. I seem to encounter endless small tricks while making those sweet gocco prints. Yesterday, despite the quirkiness of the process was a great gocco day. I took on a big production day - five new screens and prints in one day. I know, a bit crazy, but that's me. I am excited to show you the new ones - a new traveling forest greeter- Ms. Owl, a triptych featuring herons and mandala's, and lastly an owl card. I hope you enjoy. I will be sending these goodies off to stores all over, and will be putting them in my etsy shop later today. Happy January!

I love wrapping gifts.

2011-12-22T05:29:00.000-08:00

little bundles of joy..... I hope this time of year is magical for you.... Merry Christmas.

Thanks Textures!

2011-12-20T18:25:00.000-08:00

Textures trunk show was amazing! Thanks to Maggie for allowing me to have a platypusfile holiday show. I had an fun time arranging the new plates, drawings, prints with all the bird pillows. Having a whole wall to display goods - yippee. It made me a bit more hungry for a studio though. Here are some pictures from the show and I will be bringing more plates and circle scarves to the store tomorrow. I hope everyone is having family fun!

A day full of goodies

2011-12-14T17:17:00.000-08:00

Walter and I went plate hunting today. I am super excited about the ceramic decals and needed more plates to work on. I couldn't sleep last night, instead I made a new drawing for plates. While we were hunting today we found the most absolute wonderful afghan. I have been wanting one like this for awhile. It actually all goes back to one episode of Gilmore Girls when Lane is on bedrest, they show this amazing spread that has created a deep need in me ever since. When we returned home, several packages arrived and two were filled with pretty pretty cabochons. Here they are before they are turned into hair clips and headbands. A fun day of treasure hunting with my sweet boy.

Sweet treats for supporting Platypusfile!

2011-12-12T18:56:00.000-08:00

Be one of the first three folks to spend $50 and get this goodie bag containing lots of fun Platypusfile goods equaling $50. See you Friday night at Textures Handmade Market from 6-9pm!

What's inside? vintage children's book image earrings (in box), gift tags, four pack gocco printed cards, owl pin. All snuggly inside a gocco printed bag. Yippee!

Holiday Trunk Show this Friday at Textures Handmade Market!

2011-12-11T06:40:00.000-08:00

Yeah for the HOLIDAYS!

Platypusfile will be having a trunk show this Friday from 6-9pm at Textures Handmade Market. I am excited about all the new work and free goodies. I will have goody bags worth $50 for the first three customers who spend $50 and as well as three $25 goody bags. So come and support local handmade fun! Can't wait to see everyone! To Merry days >>>>>>> platypusfile

Stockings galore!

2011-12-08T10:11:00.000-08:00

Here is a new batch of stockings I finished up. Some of them will be here at the Downtown Market this Saturday and the rest will be flying North to Asheville's great Garage 34. For those of you looking for them in Asheville they should be there at the beginning of next week. I was super lucky this week and found some pretty alpaca and wool sweaters this week, super soft!

I am totally in love with the holidaze

2011-11-16T06:33:00.000-08:00

I know it can be stressful, the preparation for the gift buying, making, baking, loving, having fun. I am in the whirlwind of it all - making lots of goodies to get to stores before black friday. The loved and hated day of all - the start of Christmas shopping. However, I still love it. I am amazed that people want oodles of handmade goodies by me for their stores, for their family holidays. For that I am super grateful. So before the stress of the holidays gets to us all - Thank you all for supporting me and my family by making your life handmade. Please know that when you choose handmade you are making a big difference in so many peoples lives. Have a wonderful start to your holidays!

The Villager in Auburn, AL

2011-11-08T14:23:00.000-08:00

The Villager is amazing. The experience of being in the store is similar to being in a gallery or art museum but you can touch all you want. My kind of place. So many goodies and such a wonderful staff. I had a wonderful time being the featured artist - it is so special to meet all those who enjoy my goods, I really do like sharing a piece of myself with them. Here are some pics of the big weekend -- Hope you are enjoying your fall!

etsy, etsy, etsy

2011-10-13T09:48:00.000-07:00

I have been neglecting my etsy site, shame on me. I am in the process of packing it full of goodies, hopefully it will have the same abundance as my booth at the downtown market. Let me know if you don't see items that you wish you did. Here are a couple of the goodies up for sale -- Keep checking back, there is more to come.

Norcross Georgia you are GREAT!

2011-10-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful time in historic Norcross Ga. A small town outside of Atlanta, a sweet downtown and yummy yummy food. Maybe the best Cuban and Mexican food I have ever had. We went for the Norcross Art Festival, I was an artist there, two days of lots of nice folks shopping in gusty cool weather. I met very nice artists as well as buyers who have seen my birds in The Villager in Auburn. It is fun to meet people who have been connected to my work in some way. I have some pics, these are actually not the ones I originally wanted to post, but somehow my smart phone is smarter than me and I cannot get the photos I want to load on my mac. Soooo, If by some act of wonder I get them off I will post them later, but I didn't want to much time to pass before I posted about my fun trip. I am now getting ready for my featured artist event at The Villager in Auburn. I will be there October 28th and 29th--- stop by if you are in town there. I will post some of the goodies I will be bringing.

Amazing Aves

2011-09-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

Coming up with a title for these birds is a bit troubling, especially since I am relying on my four year son for suggestions. So as of now, no title. But here are the completed cards. Have a great day!

Gocco prints galore!

2011-09-23T09:51:00.000-07:00

Working with my beloved Gocco press. I do love this machine, but lately it has been a struggle. I usually blame the machine, but today it was also my scattered brain. Sometimes it is tricky, and one of my down falls is that I don't give up. So many screens, bulbs, a blue filter and tons of ink later I have 1 of 2 prints that will be for sale soon! I will have packs of cards for sale at the market and Textures Handmade Market. This is the first print and a peek at my printing process. I hope your day is easy and effortless, or at least, you are able to move on after having hard times. I am trying. To merry days....

Designers Call :::::::::: Tallahassee, FL

2011-08-19T19:28:00.000-07:00

A sweet post of lovely Tallahassee on the blog Designers Call. I sure do love when folks take the time to say something nice about our lovely town.

Garage34

2011-08-19T18:02:00.000-07:00

I am happy to say I just send a batch of goodies off to Garage34. What a sweet store, look at this babe. I would have loved to plant Walter in these cuddly pants. They have a really nice website, so many cute, colorful items to marvel at. It is in downtown Asheville, a great place to be. Next time you are there make sure to pay it a visit.

Headbands

2011-08-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

I have a new batch of headbands that I have made for fall! There will be three different styles, some dainty flowers, others large and powerful. So far, you can pick them up at The Villager in Auburn, Textures Handmade Market, or come visit me at the Downtown Market. All headbands $10!

Still playing at age 35

2011-08-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

I think learning through play is extremely important. It seems that most folks understand this, especially for kids. I see my son learn vast more while he is figuring out how to make connections between his toys, taking two dissimilar things and making them work together. I also play, of course with my son, but in my life of making. I need to take time to try things out, sometimes it doesn't work but that of course is an important moment for me. The next step is to try and find out why, that problem solving is usually when something good turns up. These next necklaces are a result of me playing with new bobbles last week. I am fond of them, they will be a bit hard to let go of. to merry days - janae

My love of cabochons

2011-07-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

I have just received some new cabochons for hair clips. I love getting the boxes of colorful cabochons, it's like sorting through really pretty candy. In fact one of them looks a lot like cake icing, yum. I will be sending out all these new goodies to my great stores throughout the country and of course I will have some at the market this Saturday. Enjoy the sunshine!

Wholly Craft!

2011-07-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

I just sent off a box of goodies to the amazing Wholly Craft! A great store up in the Midwest - Columbus, Ohio. If you are up that way check out the treasures. It looks very fun - I wish I could dart over and do a little shopping. Thanks Wholly Craft for having me as an artist!

A rainy day at the market

2011-07-16T10:58:00.000-07:00

Today was a short day at the market, the rain showed up and put a close to lovely day. It is amazing how much nicer the day is when it is about to rain. Cloudy skies, cooler temps, but a bit of an impairment on an outdoor market. I did however manage to take some new photos of the booth - I tried out my indoor booth at the outdoor market. Thought I'd mix it up a bit. See you next Saturday market.

The Big Crafty and the loveliness of Asheville!

2011-07-14T06:11:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time while we were in Asheville. We had never been to the lovely town, similar size to our own Tallahassee. It has southern charm, brilliant mountains, and laid back beauty to it. We had fun learning our way around the downtown, the Big Crafty was in Pack Place. Right before the show I scooted over to City Bakery to feast on the best roll and coffee a girl could want right before showtime. We also ate some super yummy food at Chai Pani, Indian street food restaurant. We had several yummies - Walter loved the roti. I think one delicious memorable thing for me was the forest dragon tea drink at Dobra Tea. The best tea drink I have ever had, and it was my hubby's. I also had fun days at the Arboretum, the Pisgah National Froest. It was really affordable with so much to do, I am looking forward to our next visit.

Crafty goodness!

2011-07-04T05:42:00.000-07:00

I have a tendency to get overly occupied by certain thoughts - once I start thinking about something I cannot stop. Even in my sleep, pretty much last night I dreamt of bird pillows all night. I have been thinking about booth displays, and more booth displays. We have been working on my table top display for the big crafty - and it is all I hoped for. My hubby did a great job with it. I will show pictures of it once I truly set it up for showtime. I thought I would show a bit more of my booth that I show at the downtown market here in Tally. I have more room, more props since I am in a tent and not just a table. I try and make it a little boutique, I really like the glass cabinet- it seems like a shop piece. One of my best purchases has been the sheers from Ikea, people love them and it creates a defined space without having to block out light.

Countdown begins - The Big Crafty is around the corner!

2011-07-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

I am getting very excited for the Big Crafty - coming up on July 10th! We are super jazzed about a vacation mixed with crafty fun! I am working on finishing goodies up here and will be heading to the Tallahassee Downtown Market one last time before heading off to Asheville. If you are around for fourth of July fun this weekend - the market will be a great place to be!

Downtown Marketplace - a special treat!

2011-06-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

The Downtown Marketplace is something extra special. Every Saturday food vendors, artisans, volunteers, animal shelter advocates come together to enrich our community. The outdoor marketplace provides a place for a leisurely stroll, to buy a one of kind gift, to support your neighborhood farms, to dance in the streets and of course the list may go on. I think the markets gets overlooked when we try and figure out what to do with our Saturday. Well - bring it back on your radar. I have been going since Spring, no seniority at all. But have loved each time I go - even when it's a 100 degrees. The folks are amazing, always in high spirits. And there is usually something new I have never seen, just look. I hope you can come join us this Saturday. Check out several of the fantastic vendors; Liz Smith the lovely Jeweler who has etched the cooper necklace below, Morris Springer the wood turner, always a wonderment to me,J.W. Monteith who creates antique Post Office banks and the marvelous Street Chefs (Tally has their own booming food cart frenzy). I have also included a bit of my work, in fact I have a new batch of everything this week.

Postcards complete! Tips for selling your goods!

2011-06-22T12:54:00.000-07:00

It's always a great pleasure to receive a big stack of postcards in the mail. My friend Ashley Ivey helped design these cards, they are both wild and down to earth at the same time. I used up all my other postcards that I had made, it's amazing how fast 1,000 cards get handed out. I totally recommend having postcards over business cards, the postcards have more of a visual impact. You can utilize both sides, I have heard of customers hanging them on their fridge, bringing them to their office, even framing them. With business cards they often get thrown away. Especially at markets, people scoop up the postcards - trying to have a keepsake of your booth/style. A postcard gives you a bit more room to show who you are as an artist. Postcards all the way!

etsy etsy!

2011-06-15T19:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some new goodies on etsy -- free shipping until June 20th and a free surprise too! Shop handmade -- supporting goods made by people you know. How lovely is that.

Gardening

2011-06-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some new pictures of the garden. Much is growing, despite the rain. I love seeing growth, untamed, wild. That is exactly how our tomatoes are acting. lovely. We recently got an iphone and I have been having fun using instagram - a must have if you also have an iphone!

Getting ready for market!

2011-06-09T13:13:00.000-07:00

As Thursday is half way over I think about the market this weekend. It is lovely to sit among other crafters and enjoy a weekend day. I have been impressed with all the handmade treasures. Also amazing food, especially by Three Sons Bakery and Scrumptious. If you can get there early Scrumptious usually has yummy savory treats. I have been drawing this week, which has been a pleasure. Next week will be all day sewing days. I hope everyone is enjoying the sunny days - despite the heat. Enjoy the warmth if you can.

What I have been looking at - Frakturs

2011-06-06T08:53:00.000-07:00

I spend a lot of time looking at the book, Bucks County Fraktur. I bought this book a couple summers back when we visited my mom in Pennsylvania. We took a trip to Doylestown to the Mercer Museum. Which is amazing - a giant collection of handmade tools. I highly recommend making an outing there. I am enamored at the line quallity of the drawings in this book and thought I would share a couple. Enjoy!

gardens, botany, sea birds, the magical world of drawing

2011-06-03T12:01:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed at the power of drawing. How it can refresh the mind, slow myself down and feel relaxed and curious at the same time. My yoga instructor talks about giving effort and relaxation while holding a pose. That seems very difficult in yoga and it will be something I forever work on, but when it comes to drawing, that is what I do. That is when drawing feels best. I love to draw - even when it's not a great image that is happening. But the process of mark making is what I love and am glad I have time to go there.

The Big Crafty!

2011-05-31T17:38:00.000-07:00

I am super excited that I was accepted into The Big Crafty! An art/craft show in Asheville, N.C. My hubby, son and I will venture up to the mountains on July 8th to look around before the show on the 10th. If you have any suggestions for places to see let us know - we love to explore. I have scoured the net looking at pics of older shows and see so many sweet - well made items. So glad to be part of the show - and the handmade movement!

mark making

2011-05-29T19:19:00.000-07:00

A peek at what I have been up to. I am planning on more drawing time this week. I have been a busy on the sewing machine these last few weeks and am looking forward to mark making. I enjoy going from one thing to the next. Sorry that they are a bit fuzzy, the bright sun was having fun bouncing off the glass.

something of wonder

2011-05-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

We recently traveled to Athens for the an art/craft show. Athens is an amazing town, capturing a small town feel mixed with the excitement of a mini city. We ate wonderful food at The National and Farm 255, so nice to be fed with with lovely food by good people. The gem of the trip was discovering the art of Susan Carlton Smith. Her work was displayed in two glass cases at The State Botanical of Georgia. A wonderful place to discover and re-discover the southern landscape. Here her small sculptures and mini drawings nestled in the gift shop, humble and brilliant all at once. These sculptures are remarkable to me, something I have always wanted to see and had not known it. I love things in nature, made from nature, showing the curiosity that is usually felt in childhood. Her work does just this. To see more visit RWoods studio, a ceramic studio in Athens. They have also been inspired by her loveliness.

birds birds birds - how i love them

2011-05-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

I will never out grow or out love birds. I love hugging these guys - each one before I pack it off. I am feeling a bit nostalgic for all the birds I have made. Thanks for all who keep bringing these birds into their life. It means a lot to me. xoxo

For the love of Gocco

2011-05-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

Here are three new prints that I would like to say easily came to be. I love gocco but definitely found myself an inch a way from tears as I whipped up these babies. For those of you who know this process, know that it can go gloriously where you feel like you have climbed up a mountain effortlessly. Well, mine was a tiny mountain that felt like a giant one. I went through three screens before I actually got a workable print, and being that these materials are super hard to come by - I was holding my breath the entire time. Of course, I am better for it. Now I understand what everyone is complaining about on the Gocco sites where they run into difficulties. I still love you Gocco, no matter how tricky you are.

Athens here we come!

2011-04-22T05:08:00.000-07:00

I am super giddy at going on a mini vacation. We as a family pretty much stay put, but this summer we are going to travel pretty much each month to a new city for an art festival. Our first is Athens, check out the festivities here. Super cute, yummy farm to table restaurants, good coffee, a botanical garden. I will post pictures on our return. If you are in the area here is some info. Happy Crafting!

cloth bags

2011-04-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

I am a lover of gifts and cloth bags. I feel bad when I accept or get a throw away bag (plastic, paper) - I think man I should have known better and brought a bag. But that can be a difficult thing to remember. As you know I sell at markets and my dilemma has been over bags. I felt frustrated over giving a paper bag - even though they are nice. So -- I decided to give cloth bags that I hand print. It is always fun to bring out the gocco printer, and an excuse to play with new inks and color combos. So for as long I do markets, each purchase will come with a bag that is gocco printed by me - a gift. Of course, you can pass on the bags. On this lovely day in April, I have been printing out back. I will be at Chain of Parks this Saturday, crossing my fingers that if it rains it just drizzles. Look for me in the usual area where the downtown market is.

Springtime Tallahassee

2011-04-03T07:15:00.000-07:00

The market yesterday was very pleasant. Cool breezes, the sun poked out to warm our bodies and lots of folks coming and going all day. I had a nice time. Thanks to all who came to say hi or who bought goodies yesterday.

I displayed my new booth and am really excited to show you some pictures. The previous weekend at market my booth wasn't as exciting and it was a bit of a bummer for me. I knew I had some work to do and asked my hubby to help. As well as my moma who sent the great sheers from Ikea. Most of the items are from either Good Cents or Good Will, we did some alterations, painting, adding on to create just what I needed. I had been devouring the web looking trying to figure out what would be good for me to do and what I learned was to make it like a mini boutique, your own store. That is what I have tried to do. And it has made it more fun for me too, I've always wanted my own mini store.

I will be at Chain of Parks on the 16th of April if you are around! To Happy Days!

Time for Market

2011-03-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

I am excited that tomorrow marks my first day back at the Downtown Market. It has been a long while, pre-Walter. He is now four years old - so time does really fly. Our weather is so splendid that I am looking forward to sitting around being outside for the entire day. What a treat. I love markets and am glad to be back with the folks that make Saturday mornings special. Here are some of the goodies that I will be taking with me.

Whoosh and time flies

2011-03-04T14:24:00.000-08:00

It is amazing to me how the days fly by -- I try to slow them down as much as possible but they still float away in the Springtime breeze. I am so happy to be in Tallahassee these past couple of weeks - each day unfolds new blossoms. Here are a couple of drawings I did for a sweet gallery in Tennessee, Southern Fried Gallery. I hope your days are lovely!

another beauty - FX18 - Taos New Mexico

2011-02-04T19:34:00.000-08:00

Here is another fun store with cute talented ladies -- FX18. This store is located in Taos, New Mexico. A beautiful place, I traveled there awhile back with my mom. I love all the goodies and noticed Libby is selling Bike Snob- I have been curious about this book. My hubby is a avid rider, no snob but loves bikes. More fun stuff on every wall -- and soon Platypusfile will be sold there. I am working on a another batch of goodies. I would love to someday travel to all the stores - a handmade adventure. Here is a peek at their cuteness!

Hello Miss Malaprop!

2011-02-02T15:46:00.000-08:00

I have been lucky enough to find a fun new store, Miss Malaprop. It has charm, whimsy and smart products for all. It is located in New Orleans on Alexander st. I have not had a chance to go there myself, but am excited to say I am new artist that they will be carrying. Mallory has done a great job with the website, you can buy goodies via internet, so many cute handmade stores don't have this option. When you get a chance give it a peek -- it's a lot of fun!

having fun - even if one gets hurt -- badly

2011-01-30T18:19:00.000-08:00

I have just finished Carl Honore's book - Under Pressure - Rescuing our children from the culture of hyper-parenting. A mouth full. And I think back to my son and I playing out in the front yard today. We are building a front yard edible garden and my husband was installing bed frames for the garden beds and my son and I are tickling, licking, laughing -- rough housing around. Now - usually the boys are who rough houses because I get hurt (although pretty minor). Today we were laughing and then boink head butt to the nose and crack. My nose not the little ones, and ouch. It is either broke or badly bruised. Enough of a sore nose to make me feel weak, and not able to breath out of my nose well. I also think it looks different. But with all that, I don't care, I am so glad to have played rough, to have grass all over my back, to laugh.

I think it is so easy to live under the umbrella of anxiety - never knowing if what you do is enough. Well, attention and love is enough. I am lucky to homeschool my son, we take walks to the park, play legos outside, he swirls around playing Ben 10 while I hang laundry out to dry. It is magical and usually it seems to be far enough away from those who hyper-parent. But... it sometimes creeps in. I enjoy Honore's voice, I loved his other book - In Praise of Slowness. I think he shows the reader what is happening now in a myriad of ways - looking more than one group and/or mind set. I think we can learn from others, but mostly from really paying attention to our guts. Making sure we feel we are doing the right thing for one's family. What I got most from this book was to take more risks -- climb more trees - for both me and my son -- and perhaps at different times.

* for anyone that lives in Tally I am happy to loan out my copy of the book.

Suzy Lee is amazing!

2011-01-27T05:54:00.000-08:00

I love the world of children's books. The escape is what speaks to me I heard an artist say that she creates sub worlds because the world we live in is too rough, violent, extreme in so many ways. Well, as an adult I also do this. But how does a kid? I think books help foster paths for children. Allowing them to invent and create what is comfortable and creative for them. Suzy Lee does this with all her books, and I am especially fond of this new one. Shadows -- check it out here.

looking at Pennsylvania dutch

2011-01-19T10:02:00.001-08:00

More scarves in at Textures Handmade Market

2011-01-18T09:37:00.000-08:00

I love wearing these circle scarves, I have even been seen sleeping with one around my neck. So cozy - which is always something I strive for. Here are some new ones and there are more on the way.

I'm excited to show you these new necklaces

2011-01-13T12:55:00.000-08:00

I have been dreaming about these for awhile. I have known them but had not created them, I have been trying to find the right style of necklace for some time now. Introducing ..........."What Lies Within" (a working title) a series of mixed media necklaces.

Birds, Birds, Birds, I don't think there can ever be enough of them

2011-01-12T06:53:00.000-08:00

I am always looking at birds, real and imaginary. Etsy is the place to find the best handmade birds, so many creative folk there. As I was poking around this morning, I found this blog post over at Where the Lovely Things Are -- birds made by etsy sellers. So cute, and her other posts are really great too.

Some drawings for a teeny tiny art show

2011-01-11T07:20:00.000-08:00

Here are some drawings I have recently made for Three Graces Gallery. They will be in a teeny tiny art show this Feburary, all art must be under 10x10x10". I love small things, sometimes I think the smaller the more I love them. Here are mine, they average around 4x4 or so. I hope your New Year is amazing!

Oh my goodness -- look at this basket!

2010-12-14T18:35:00.000-08:00

This is an amazing chance to win this basket at Textures Handmade Market this Friday at Textures from 5-8pm. I think this looks like a treasure trove of loot. So cute and all handmade. What a great chance to have a happy something happen! See you there.

Handmade fun at Textures next Friday the 17th

2010-12-08T17:07:00.000-08:00

Come out and support all of Tallahassee's local talent at Textures Handmade Market. It is amazing how many beautiful goodies are there for the picking. I have purchased many goodies so far, a mug, a t-shirt, a coin purse, I have two more shirts on special order and am hoping to get some nesting bird bowls for some family members. As well as finding a special handmade treat, many of the artists will be on hand for a chat and fun. If you have not come by the store -- come see us on the 17th!

Visit the Bookshelf for handmade goodies, a must read, and a victorian christmas

2010-12-04T04:11:00.000-08:00

December 9-12 Thomasville, GA will be hosting a Victorian Christmas. Last year's event made me so happy, with old world Santa's walking around, roasting marshmallows on several corners, fancy yummy food, a live nativity and the Bookshelf. The Bookshelf is one of the best bookstore's I have ever visited (including big city bookstores) It is a magical place full of only the best things you could imagine. This year Textures handmade market artist will be selling their goods in the upstairs gallery portion of the space. So come out for many delights- you will treasure this event!

HolidaybirdShow at Textures Handmade Market

2010-11-28T19:23:00.000-08:00

Another cute art space -- Three Graces Gallery

2010-11-16T12:35:00.000-08:00

This is an exciting art space run by a creative and kind owner, Kim Ferreira. Three Graces Gallery is an eclectic array of art and object in New Hampshire. She hosts art shows and sells great handmade items, like Becky Oh handbags. She does such a nice job for each artist, creating a online space to view their work -- here is mine. I wish I could go on a holiday shopping stroll over there, but for now I can shop via their excellent website. Check it out, she has done a fantastic job.

The beautiful, wonderful Villager in Auburn

2010-11-15T12:09:00.000-08:00

I just returned from being a featured artist along with Cal Breed at The Villager in Auburn, AL. I had a blast, my time there was amazing. From our car ride up with the leaves changing color to the spunky and fun staff at the Villager. I got to hang out with the store/friends/customer for both Friday and Saturday. Amazed at how they make each person who comes into that store feel special. I am so glad to be part of that experience and am grateful for them. As we headed home from Auburn I had the most overwhelming feeling of thanks, a great big thank you to all who made my days special in Auburn. Thank you Villager!

luvable-hugable

2010-11-10T05:13:00.000-08:00

This is an exciting show that will be opening soon in New York. So many amazing plush artists making fun one of a kind goodies. I am super excited that I am part of the show, I only wish I could go see all these goodies. If you have a chance to see the show, or just check it out their website -- stop by Gallery Hanahou.

new gocco prints

2010-10-26T05:38:00.000-07:00

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle -- sing those sweet praises

2010-10-11T05:40:00.000-07:00

I have recently read the acclaimed Animal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara Kingsolver. I am usually a bit behind on the release date of new books - but I eventually get a chance to read them. I am a big fan of hers, and continue to be with the read of this book. I think it is admirable and honest to bring the family back to the table for meals, laughter and love. As well as teach all where our food comes from. I do think that in our culture we are shown people who either go all the way or nothing. As they created a life of their own food for one year, being mostly sustained by their own makings. Again, amazing, but it seems difficult and for many of us we want to contribute in a positive way too. I recall many conversations with folks that if they can't buy all organic than why bother, etc. I think there needs to be more advice, words on how to start to be more mindful and aware of our consumption even if you cannot be a localvore, even if you can only do some acts of positive consumption - even the tiny things add up. I am working on buying more local food, we have several dairies here which is lucky. They have amazing milk, cheese and yogurt. New Leaf Market has an excellent section on this on their website. We have one car so we have days where we try to walk and not ride, my husband uses his bike to get to and from work. We mostly shop for reused items, although we splurge (mostly me). But with that said, I still feed bad. And honestly, after I read the book I felt a bit inadequate for not being more hyper about my food. I think this is common, when someone wants to be better but sees themselves struggle. I am now reading a lighter book - David Sedaris'- When You Are Engulfed in Flames. Cheers to my favorites!

Fall trunk show -- October 1st.

2010-09-19T04:58:00.000-07:00

My dear friend designed this for me. So nice to have friends that are super talented. I love the text and the way she pulled the color from the drawing. The drawing is from a new mini coloring book which I have made especially for the show - I have colored it in. It will be available in black and white. I will click a photo of it someday soon. I hope you will be able to come out and see all the new Fall goodies I have been working on. Friday - Oct 1 -- I will be there from 6-9 pm. Hope to see you soon. Oh- and it's a book mark for all books you are reading. I love book marks and haven't had a real one in awhile.

What I am reading

2010-09-16T05:31:00.000-07:00

I am reading In Praise of Slowness by Carl Honore. I am loving it, the pace of the book matches it's title - it is an elegant read. Honore covers many areas of how we can enjoy slowing down, in food, with our children, our leisure. I have been curious about how authors tackle the slow movement for some time now. I am a fast paced girl who has learned to be more mindful and slow. I can remember the first time I washed clothes and hung them to dry -- while we were living with my husband's parents when I was a wee young one. That made a lasting impression on me. I am more excited and present when I get to fully experience something and slowness helps that. I recommend this book -- it is no the holier than thou telling us how to be like them, but from a speedaholic curious about how to live better. I am always for that.

Where will you find Halibut Jackson

2010-09-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

My son loves the idea of camouflage, he talks about animals in habitats and himself. The all famous hide and seek -- peek a boo--- . So here comes a lad, Halibut Jackson, who is shy and beautiful who hides in many places, even the library. Try and find him at your library. I hope to stumble upon a copy at our local good will for keeps.

ten things at Renegade Handmade Market

2010-09-12T18:31:00.000-07:00

Check out Renegade's site and blog if you haven't already. So many goodies to enjoy -- take a fun look at some of their favorites. I was delighted to see a bird greeter sitting at the front desk. See number 9.

I hope your days are lovelyxoxo

Not just any old lady

2010-09-08T05:54:00.000-07:00

This is Jeremy Holmes version of There was an old lady..... who swallowed a fly. This is a favorite story of ours. We have several different versions, but I love this darker version of it. Of course this folk song is dark and many have a hard time with that. but... we love it and of course it is also funny.

We love this Bear!

2010-09-01T06:30:00.000-07:00

This book is wonderful, Wonder Bear, by Tao Nyeu. There are no words, which is something I absolutely enjoy. You are able to tell the story in your own words, or child's words. I would say this is a must have for your children's library or even adult library. I think I slept very well after reading this.

150 Traveling Forest Greeters - birds

2010-08-28T18:52:00.000-07:00

I have been excited about seeing them together all week. I have had an order from the Villager in Auburn for their Grand Opening to make 150 of these birds. It has been fun and interesting to make such a large batch, I think my largest batch has been 40. As a teenager I always thought I would like a labor job, some assembly line task that I could do repetitively. This is probably as close as I would realistically like to get, for I get to change it up when I start getting loopy. I am still packaging them all up, I needed a change of pace. I have enjoyed making them, and am glad that I get the chance to see so many at one time - thanks to everyone at The Villager.

one of the great extras to being a mom - kid's books

2010-08-18T21:09:00.000-07:00

Oh goodness, I am such a fan of books and books with great images all the better. A sweet friend of ours gave us Around the World with Mouk by Marc Boutavant last Christmas for our son. Walter and I have been playing with it, indulging in all it's quirkiness. It is a delight and I would say for all ages. If you haven't checked it out - you should. No matter your age.

Come visit Textures artists in Thomasville this Friday

2010-08-02T19:45:00.000-07:00

August 6, 2010
6:30 pm	to	9:00 pm
August 7, 2010
10:00 am	to	6:00 pm

Go Old School at the Bookshelf

Friday, August 6, 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM and Saturday, August 7, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, 126 S. Broad St. ~ The Bookshelf celebrates Back to School ~ First Fridaywith live music, refreshments and an Old School Handmade Market featuringTextures Handmade Market of Tallahassee, local artisan crafts and a Children’s Art Show! Don’t forget to check out The Bookshelf’s new EcoGear Backpacksand other great back to school items! 126 S. Broad St., Contact: 229-228-7767, www.bookshelfandgallery.com.

Lite Brite for Lite Box

2010-08-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

Today is picture taking day. It was nice this morning due to a haze that covers our southern land, overcast and humidity. I was lucky for the filtered light, as long as the sweat didn't interfere with my vision. I am sending these off this upcoming week to a show at the Lite Box in Birmingham. Many fellow Tallahasseans will be there as well as other folks I do not know. I love the idea that color color color will a be an overriding motif of the show.

A visit from the the woodland dolls

2010-08-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

These are my new dolls- Woodland dolls. I have been wanting to play more with mixing textures and patterns. As well as sewing on their faces with the machine stitching. For me it is a lot like drawing.

etsy treasury's

2010-07-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

If you have been to etsy lately you will see fun treasury's. Fellow etsians create and share. This is a recent one that featured some nice illustrations. Here is just a snip it - but to see more visit Illustrations Galore by fakeyouth.

Habitat gocco cards

2010-06-23T18:44:00.001-07:00

I have been thinking about making a series of cards around animals and their habitats. Of course, they are pretend and come out of a fairytale existence. I think all of my son's story books are having a large influence on me. I have made these on wonderful letterpress paper, I adore the Crane&co pearl white 100% cotton paper. These cards are A2, a bit smaller than the gocco prints I do. I have had so much fun making these. They will be available at Textures and on Etsy shortly. I hope your days are bright!

new hair clips

2010-06-15T08:59:00.001-07:00

Now that I have real short hair I am making these hair clips. I love these vintage cabochons. So much fun, like a flower garden for the head.

Summer gocco print - Sunspots

2010-06-14T12:47:00.001-07:00

I am enjoying the heat, regardless of how sweaty and weak it may make one feel. We had a 100 degree day, but it is still so wonderful. I have been walking/running on trails and the sunlight trickles through. The earth feels cooler, the trees have shade and their is still all the beautiful colors of Summer. So Cheers to June, I hope I still feel this way come July.

a bit more of the collage necklaces

2010-06-14T12:45:00.001-07:00

New necklaces - collages for your neck

2010-06-10T10:55:00.001-07:00

This is a new territory for me. Well sort of - I have been making tab drawings for a long time now and have always wanted to connect the drawings to the necklaces. That was the hard for me. The tabs are taped to the glass, two pieces of glass are present - which makes the images float. These will be available in two sizes - here is the 2" and a 1x1/2". I am bringing a couple over to Textures this week and hope to get them on my etsy soon too. A pretty day outside if you can bear the heat. We went swimming in the lake and saw great seaweed. I'd love to make necklaces that resemble seaweed.

Ira Glass on improving your craft

2010-06-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Check out this archived explantation on how to improve your craft. I think this is a great way to look at it whoever you are, writer, artists, cake maker, etc. Visit Craftzine blog to view!

Redux in Porland

2010-05-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hello friends - here is a fun shop and gallery in Portland. If you get a chance to travel this summer definitely check it out. I have just sent a new shipment of goodies up there. I wish I could wander this shop - hours of day-dreaming.

A look back at the Trunk show

2010-05-03T14:06:00.000-07:00

It has been a couple weeks since the debut of my new ladies and bird pillows. I sometimes really like the time where you can get calm and then reflect on what you created. Those days just before something big are sooo distracting and not always telling of what you actually think. I am really enjoying making the dolls, especially the ones riding birds. I think I want a future one to ride a fish. Thanks for all of you who continually support me, not just by buying these goodies, but for believing in me and enjoying what I make. That last part means the most.

Home and Design magazine - Tallahassee - April/May 2010

2010-05-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

This is from this months Home and Design Magazine. It features three Textures artists' - Maggie Willman(Handmade Maggie) who has the repurposed book, Julie Argue who has made the purse out of men's ties and myself. Featured are a bird pillow and women explorer doll. Thanks Home and Design for including us in such a nice feature. I am glad the idea of repurposing and reusing are in fashion these days.

some springtime drawings

2010-04-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a peak at some of my new drawings. I am loving all the buds outside, such a feast for someone like me who loves to smell and draw flowers.

Spring Trunk Show - this Friday

2010-04-07T09:35:00.001-07:00

These First few weeks of Spring are true bliss in Tallahassee. Of course, it is already starting to warm up a bit - feeling more like Summer. I love it all, and especially the blooms. I am celebrating Spring with some new items at Textures Handmade Market this Friday from 5-8pm. Come check out all my new stuffed gocco prints, prints on paper, jewelry and explorer dolls. Lucy and Leo's will be baking yummy cupcakes to tempt you as well. I have been busy preparing for the show and have been slow to post pictures, so I will start back again after this friday's trunk show. I hope your days are merry!

Appalachian Women Explorers

2010-03-21T12:51:00.000-07:00

These ladies will be moving to Tennessee this week. It has been sweet visiting with them, but they are excited for new adventures. They will be headed to the Southern Fried Gallery. Bye.

New women explorer dolls for Portland OR

2010-03-21T12:45:00.000-07:00

Here are two newly made women explorer dolls. I have been working on them for the past two days, I am loving those wool pants. They will be flying of to Portland OR to a great shop/gallery Redux. Take a look around, so much great talent there.

Thanks for participating in the give-away

2010-03-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

Thanks for leaving your nice comments, they were all really helpful. I want to introduce our winner ....... Sharon Moskowitz. She left a great comment and the name of one of the new women explorer dolls for my April trunk show - Osa Johnson. I love learning about new people so if anyone ever wants to suggest new persona's for the dolls, please let me know. I hope you all had a great first day of spring!

I too am usually distracted

2010-03-19T06:13:00.001-07:00

I really like this arrangement. The colors and line surprisingly make sense. The chaos is so enjoyable. Westervin blog put his together. To see the original post click here, also check out all the other goodies.

Platypusfile giveaway

2010-03-02T04:53:00.000-08:00

Hello friends and fellow crafters. I am excited to offer a special giveaway this month. In honor of celebrations, yesterday was my birthday, I thought I would give away a gift to you. You will get a pack of three stuffed gocco prints - Traveling Forest Greeters. I have printed on cloth using a gocco printer. The bird and trees have some cloth that is used as extra embellishment. They come in a printed sack. They retail value at $25. So let's get excited and get ready because there are five ways to enter and each person can enter twice. Which ever way you decide to enter please leave your response in the comment section.

1. Visit my shop platypusfile at etsy or in person at Textures Handmade market and let me know what item is your favorite.

2. Become a follower of Janae Easton at Platypusfile or craft revival workshop, this will keep you up to date on all my crafting adventures.

3. Heart me at etsy, I would love to become one of your favorite shops!! But don't forget to tell me in the comment section here.

4. Create a post/link to this giveaway on your blog!

5. Purchase an item on etsy or at Textures Handmade Market and you will be entered twice for this giveaway. If you bought something at the store, let me know what you bought in the comment section. At the bottom of this post click on comment. From their you can leave your message.

*The giveaway will last until March 20, 2010 until 11:59pm - In honor of Spring. I will email you to notify you of your wining!

Home of the Sampler

2010-03-02T04:49:00.000-08:00

Go check out home of the sampler, a great site where you can purchase a bundle of goodies for a mere $25. This month I have a pack of three Goccos in the sampler.

a new drawing for a new day

2010-02-20T16:13:00.001-08:00

It has been so beautiful these past three days. I mean glorious, walks all day, birds singing, hawks soaring. Gosh, and usually at this time of the year (I think it is clockwork) I start to want to plant plant plant. My son and I were planning our garden veggies on our walk tonight. As with all this lovely weather, dreaming of garden veggies, of course comes the butterflies. We grow mostly butterfly attractive plants (bees too). So here is drawing for all that is here to come. I love spring and I love drawing. I hope your days have been as pleasurable.

Traveling Forest Greeters fly off to Renegade Handmade

2010-02-19T08:26:00.000-08:00

Hello friends --- I am excited to announce that these greeters will be making their way to Renegade Handmade in Chicago. What is super is that you can shop from home, since for many of us a trip to Chicago is out of the way. They have an excellent online store and soon some of my goodies will be there too. I use to live in the same neighborhood that the shop is in. I would have loved to see such a gem on my daily walk to the L. Hope your day is happy.

Stitch-n-Rhyme

2010-02-15T14:43:00.000-08:00

I had a lovely time with my sweet friends making valentines. We have been doing a stitch-n-rhyme at my house for about a year and a half now. We casually get together about once a month. Usually working on individual creations, but this was our first designated craft. Valentines out of sculpey- my son and I made some too. A good craft for all ages. I hope you all had a lovely Valentines day. oxoxoxoxo

Strange fruit - a new flock

2010-02-15T14:25:00.000-08:00

It has been great fun playing with all my new fabric. I am loving the Heather Ross prints with the mermaids. I have also been coveting the wood-grain fabric by Joel Dewberry. It was great to find it fabric.com. They have great deals and beautiful goods. I am working on a design for small birds, hopefully I will show you those soon. Have a glorious day.

Janae Easton at Platypusfile

A weekend of drawing

loving books

Come on over to Charm Stitch!

sneak peek - online tutorial

What a mess!

Gocco Gocco Gocco

collections - loving things

late night Gocco printing

January Blooms

Gocco Gocco Gocco

I love wrapping gifts.

Thanks Textures!

A day full of goodies

Sweet treats for supporting Platypusfile!

Holiday Trunk Show this Friday at Textures Handmade Market!

Stockings galore!

I am totally in love with the holidaze

The Villager in Auburn, AL

etsy, etsy, etsy

Norcross Georgia you are GREAT!

Amazing Aves

Gocco prints galore!

Designers Call :::::::::: Tallahassee, FL

Garage34

Headbands

Still playing at age 35

My love of cabochons

Wholly Craft!

A rainy day at the market

The Big Crafty and the loveliness of Asheville!

Crafty goodness!

Countdown begins - The Big Crafty is around the corner!

Downtown Marketplace - a special treat!

Postcards complete! Tips for selling your goods!

etsy etsy!

Gardening

Getting ready for market!

What I have been looking at - Frakturs

gardens, botany, sea birds, the magical world of drawing

The Big Crafty!

mark making

something of wonder

birds birds birds - how i love them

For the love of Gocco

Athens here we come!

cloth bags

Springtime Tallahassee

Time for Market

Whoosh and time flies

another beauty - FX18 - Taos New Mexico

Hello Miss Malaprop!

having fun - even if one gets hurt -- badly

Suzy Lee is amazing!

looking at Pennsylvania dutch

More scarves in at Textures Handmade Market

I'm excited to show you these new necklaces

Birds, Birds, Birds, I don't think there can ever be enough of them

Some drawings for a teeny tiny art show

Oh my goodness -- look at this basket!

Handmade fun at Textures next Friday the 17th

Visit the Bookshelf for handmade goodies, a must read, and a victorian christmas

Holiday*bird*Show at Textures Handmade Market

Another cute art space -- Three Graces Gallery

The beautiful, wonderful Villager in Auburn

luvable-hugable

new gocco prints

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle -- sing those sweet praises

Fall trunk show -- October 1st.

What I am reading

Where will you find Halibut Jackson

ten things at Renegade Handmade Market

Not just any old lady

We love this Bear!

150 Traveling Forest Greeters - birds

one of the great extras to being a mom - kid's books

Come visit Textures artists in Thomasville this Friday

Go Old School at the Bookshelf

Lite Brite for Lite Box

A visit from the the woodland dolls

HolidaybirdShow at Textures Handmade Market